If you’ve been following along at all on social media this past week, you’ll know I’m on vacation. I’ve been going to the Jersey Shore all my life, no matter how many hours we had to drive. No, not THAT Jersey Shore, the southern one with boardwalks, salt water taffy, and pancake houses. I’m generally a fancy traveler. I like nice hotels, comfortable transportation, and special meals, but when I come down here I want to relax. It’s all about turning off my worries and decompressing for as many days as I can. Funnily enough, it’s the first time in a while I’ve had time to write.
I wanted to share what I typically pack for trips like this. I’ll bring a blazer and some trousers if I know there’s going to be a dinner out, but only if I need to. Usually, though, I’m all about the boardwalk pizza, steamed clams, and ice cream, and I dress accordingly.
What I Packed
Shorts – I’ve been on the hunt for 5” inseam, 100% cotton shorts for years now. I still haven’t found them. These J. Crew shorts are the next best thing. I’ll still look for ones without stretch, but, for now, I have these.
Polos – My criteria has changed a little since I wrote this post years ago. Today, I wear almost exclusively Lacoste polos. I’ll get together an update post soon enough. For now all you need to know is that Lacoste was the originator of the polo shirt, which are softer and more breathable than most.
Swim Trunks – When I was younger, I wore board shorts. You know, the kind that hang down past your knees and have no liner. The funny thing is, I didn’t ride any boards in the water. Today I’m all about a more classic trunk (just like my shorts). And like my shorts, J. Crew has me covered. The right length, comfortable, and decent patterns.
Sneakers – If you’re going to wear sneakers down the shore, it only makes sense to wear the brand synonymous with the ocean, Sperry. These original canvas CVOs are the same ones from that Paul Newman picture. You know, the one on the boat where he’s drinking a Heinekin. Hard to argue with Paul.
Flip Flops – I wore Rainbow flip flops for years, and they’re great. They break in and patina so well. But a few years ago my wife gave me a pair of hari mari’s, and I was a convert. They age like Rainbows, but with a sneaker style sole. No more slipping! They were real life-changers.
Beach Shirts – You could easily wear a polo shirt to the beach (especially older, broken-in ones) and look great, but I picked up this terry cloth pool shirt and it just feels a little nicer. It has an old Hollywood vibe that just hits a little different.
Linen Shirts – It’s been pretty hot down here all week, even at night, so I’ve been dressing pretty light even in the evenings too. A few long sleeve linen shirts has been all I needed so far.
Chinos – I’ve yet to wear anything but shorts and swim trunks, but as I write this, I’m eyeing up my chinos I brought down. Today is rainy and a bit colder, so I will probably need some long pants tonight. I know these are pricey, but they really are the best I’ve found so far.
Cotton Sweater – Another piece I haven’t worn yet, but will be thankful to have if needed is a cotton sweater. Even with a pair of shorts, a light sweater can make a world of difference on a chilly evening. We usually think of sweaters as cold season wear, but a nice cotton one is an ideal summer piece.
Simple Shave – Shaves are completely optional on vacation. Coming home with a full beard is a true joy that not everyone can experience. It lets people know you relaxed, that you were “off the grid”, that you got away for more than a weekend. But…when I want to shave, I still want to use a quality soap and razor. That’s why I bring my daily razor, a small brush, and my favorite shave stick, all packed in my razor case and dopp kit from Galen Leather.
Reading Material – Reading is relaxation. I spend most of the year complaining that I don’t make enough time to read. So when I have the opportunity to just sit, I make sure to make the most of it. I brought a selection of my favorite magazines and the two books I’m reading right now: The Righteous Mind and Ready Player Two.
Bags – Like some other familiar menswear writers, I subscribe to the “no roller bag” ethos. Carrying is easier, prevents overpacking, and just looks cooler. I packed everything I brought into two Weekender bags: an old one from Blue Claw Co. and a newer one from Beckett Simonon.
If you are heading out on vacation this summer, remember to pack light, take everything in stride, and relax.
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